Thomas Paine wrote the pamphlet Common Sense, published in January 1776.
Common Sense argued that the American colonies should seek self-government and break from the British monarchy. It was published on January 10, 1776, just months before the Declaration of Independence, and was widely reprinted and read throughout the colonies.
Paine wrote in direct, accessible language rather than the formal style common in political essays of the period. That approach helped the pamphlet reach a broad audience and strengthened public support for independence during a crucial stage of the Revolutionary movement.
Common Sense is sometimes confused with the Declaration of Independence because both advocated separation from Britain. They were different works: Paine's pamphlet was a persuasive argument addressed to the public, while the Declaration was an official statement adopted by Congress and principally drafted by Jefferson.